Celebrating the Ultimate Blues Journey

Mike once told me he loved the blues because it is ultimately about triumph. Although the blues acknowledge the hardships of life, Mike saw the music itself as a victory over those tough times.

But Mike knew that the ultimate victory was not even about the music. I remember asking him once about how he became a Christian. He told me of a man who was going door to door to pray with people and tell them about the story of Jesus. Mike had lots of questions. He said that this man opened his Bible and took the time to show Mike the answers. And Mike believed. He said, "I've never been the same."

Over the course of his Christian walk, Mike came to understand that while the blues thrilled him, his ultimate blues journey was all about knowing the very Creator of all music itself. That became very real to him in his last days as he would often talk about how near God was to him, and how precious that nearness came to be.

He also continue to take great joy in making music for the Lord. He insisted on playing, even when those of us who loved him wanted him to save his strength. He, like David, literally played with all of his strength to honor God. I think if he had had the strength to dance like David danced, he would have done that too.

On July 19th, a service was held at Covenant Life to celebrate Mike's life and his ultimate blues journey right into the arms of his Maker. About 200 people attended, including friends, family, and his church family. Sandi would like for everyone to know how thankful she is for the lovely words and music that were provided, as well as the beautiful reception afterwards. She recognizes that many hands went into making everything happen. She and the entire family are very grateful for the loving support of friends and family.

I found a few more pictures of Mike from the last few years at church. Enjoy these. And stay in touch with Sandi as she continues her own journey without Mike but with all of us to walk with her.

Celebration of Life in memory of Mike

A Celebration of Life service in memory of Mike is being held Sunday, July 19th, 2PM at Covenant Life Presbyterian Church, 8490 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, Florida, 34238.

In lieu of flowers, financial support may be sent to Sandi Sinn, Covenant Life Presbyterian Church, or Tidewell Hospice.

Home

Mike Sinn, a long time member of our worship team, "our brother", and man who battled cancer for several months, went Home to be with the Lord tonight at 8:15 pm. His wife, Sandi, and his Mother, Ann, were at his side. In his years with the church, and because of his willingness to share his guitar skills with others, he built quite a number of friendships. Please continue praying for Sandi, who while having peace knowing Mike is with Christ (and probably jamming with the angels!) will herself have to make many new adjustments to life without him.
At a later date we will have a Celebration of Life in memory of Mike.

Lyrics to ANGEL BAND

Recorded by various artists, but Emmylou Harris did it once... seems like something Mike would like. With Sandi's "absolutely" to post, here are the lyrics:

My latest sun is sinking fast,
My race is nearly run;
My strongest trials now are past,
My triumph is begun.

* Refrain
Oh, come, angel band
Come and around me stand;
Oh, bear me away on your snowy wings
To my eternal home;
Oh, bear me away on your snowy wings
To my eternal home.

I know I'm near the holy ranks
Of friends and kindred dear-
I hear the waves on Jordan's banks,
The crossing must be near.

I've almost reached my heav'nly home,
My spirit loudly sings;
Thy holy ones, behold, they come!
I hear the noise of wings.

Oh, bear my longing heart to Him,
Who bled and died for me;
Whose blood now cleanses from all my sin,
And gives me victory.

LATEST UPDATE ON MIKE

Per Doctor's orders, it has been advised that Mike have no more visitors. (immediate family only)
Sandi and Ann are grateful for the many who came to visit today. They also want to convey how much they appreciate your love, support, and prayer.
Postings will be kept current with further information as we know it.
God bless you all!

The following message is from Sandi's brother, Tom. Please read carefully for this important update on Mike:

My brother-in-law, Mike, is closer to death. He has had some seizures, great weakening, some personality change and disorientation. The oncologist told my sister Sandi and Mike on Wednesday this week that they have not slowed the progress of the disease, the cancer is in his brain and is likely progressing, and he would not resuscitate as there is no hope. Of course, he was speaking in a temporal sense, for us it is in these moments that we rejoice in hope, and confirm in faith that Jesus Christ has made provision for us. Mike will know what it means to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. He will then sleep in Christ, waiting in joy for that moment when the trumpet sounds and he shall be glorified, rejoining all like him, and greeting all those who are living and also glorified. He will meet Christ in the air, and will be forever with the Lord. I say Amen and Amen.

Tom

Mike is now receiving care at Tidewell Hospice House, Room #6, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota. The family prefers that visitors be limited to one at a time. There are comfortable places to wait, if someone else is visiting when you arrive. If you would like to see Mike and talk to him (according to hospice he can likely hear you) please be aware that he can no longer respond.

Update on Mike

From Sandi...

After having been in the hospital for the past week, Mike is back at home receiving medical care. We will have to let you know when he is up to receiving phone calls or visits.

Please note that Mike and Sandi are no longer in need of a printer or fax machine!